BOH - Chef De Cuisine

SA Hospitality Group is a distinguished hospitality company with deep Italian roots, founded by Gherardo Guarducci and Dimitri Pauli. Since its inception in 2003, the group has steadily grown to become a prominent player in the New York City dining scene, known for its authentic Italian culinary experiences combined with modern, sophisticated service. With operations spanning iconic neighborhoods in Manhattan, Southampton, East Hampton, Aspen, Milan, and Palm Beach, SA Hospitality Group encompasses three renowned brands: Sant Ambroeus, Casa Lever, and Felice. Each brand proudly showcases Italian tradition through carefully curated menus, elegant settings, and a commitment to quality hospitality. The company operates a total of 24 restaurant locations across the United States and Italy, establishing a substantial presence in both domestic and international markets.

The Chef de Cuisine at SA Hospitality Group plays a pivotal role in ensuring the excellence and consistency of the kitchen and culinary offerings. Reporting directly within the culinary leadership team, the Chef de Cuisine is responsible for overseeing day-to-day kitchen operations, managing staff, and assisting the Executive Chef in menu development, inventory control, and cost management. This role demands a passionate culinary professional who possesses strong leadership qualities alongside an unwavering dedication to Italian cuisine and food quality. The individual will be instrumental in maintaining the high standards expected by the company and its clientele while fostering a team-oriented and high-performance kitchen environment.

As a key managerial figure, the Chef de Cuisine supports the Executive Chef during their presence and independently manages the kitchen in their absence. Responsibilities include coordinating staff schedules, resolving employee conflicts, overseeing food deliveries, and ensuring smooth communication between the kitchen and front-of-house teams. The Chef de Cuisine actively participates in staff training by creating standardized recipes and materials, conducting tastings to maintain product quality, and leading pre-shift meetings explaining daily specials and ingredient origins.

During service, the Chef de Cuisine is present in the kitchen for all meal periods they are scheduled for—be it breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner—ensuring that dishes are prepared accurately, promptly, and to specification. The role requires hands-on involvement in cooking and plating when necessary and effective communication of menu changes or food-related issues to the serving team. Beyond service, the Chef de Cuisine closely monitors culinary staff performance, delivering feedback and coaching to optimize overall kitchen productivity and quality.

Maintaining the presentation and consistency of dishes is crucial in this role, with the Chef de Cuisine actively assisting in food preparation, setting quality standards, and helping develop new menu items, including specials and seasonal changes. Financial responsibilities involve adhering to company procedures for food ordering, managing inventory to prevent shortages, and aiding the Executive Chef in controlling food and labor costs.

Administrative duties are also integral to the position, including updating culinary documentation, ensuring compliance with health departments, coordinating with public relations for media engagement, and participating in operational meetings. The Chef de Cuisine is expected to stay informed about industry trends and advances in culinary techniques, continuously enhancing their knowledge through self-directed learning supported by SA Hospitality Group’s commitment to employee development.

This full-time role requires the ability to work 53 hours per week and physical capability to lift up to 30 pounds. SA Hospitality Group embraces an inclusive workplace culture and provides reasonable accommodations in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act. This position represents an excellent opportunity for a motivated chef who is eager to contribute to a respected hospitality company known for its Italian cuisine and dedication to quality service.